Name: Gluten-Free Mint Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips (allergy-friendly or dairy-free, as needed); 1/3 cup coconut oil or avocado oil (can sub butter or vegan butter); 1/2 cup coconut sugar; 2 eggs; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/4 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder (sometimes labeled Dutch-processed or alkalized cocoa); 3 Tablespoons cornstarch (can substitute arrowroot); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup softened butter or dairy-free butter; 2 Tablespoons milk (I use unsweetened almond milk); 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4-1/2 teaspoon mint extract; a tiny pinch salt (less than 1/8 teaspoon); 1-2 drops green food coloring (optional); 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (allergy-friendly or dairy-free, as needed); 1/4 cup milk (I use unsweetened almond milk)

There’s something absolutely irresistible about the combo of rich chocolate and refreshing mint – trust me, this Gluten-Free Mint Brownies Recipe nails that perfect balance. These brownies are fudgy, decadent, and topped with a dreamy mint buttercream that’s just the right hint of cool without overpowering the chocolate. Plus, they're naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free, so everyone can enjoy a bite or two (or three, no judgment here!).

The image shows a row of square dessert bars with three clear layers. The bottom layer is dark brown with a moist, crumbly texture, the middle layer is a light mint green and smooth, and the top layer is a thick, glossy dark chocolate sheet. The bars are neatly cut and placed on white parchment paper with a white marbled surface underneath. There are a few fresh green mint leaves scattered beside the bars. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Gluten-Free Mint Brownies Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Gluten-Free Mint Brownies Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Gluten-Free Mint Brownies Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’m genuinely excited to share this Gluten-Free Mint Brownies Recipe with you because it’s one of those desserts that feels a little nostalgic yet perfectly modern. I love how it’s easy to whip up, naturally free from gluten, and that mint frosting? Game changer. It’s always a hit when I bring these to a gathering, and I’m sure you’ll see why once you try them.

Fudgy & Moist: Despite being gluten-free, these brownies come out perfectly chewy and decadent every time.
Mint Buttercream Magic: The light and refreshing mint frosting balances the deep chocolate for a sophisticated yet familiar flavor.
Dairy-Free Friendly: Easily adaptable with coconut or almond alternatives—no one has to miss out.
Simple to Make: With straightforward ingredients and clear steps, this recipe suits both beginners and seasoned bakers.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Gluten-Free Mint Brownies Recipe is chosen to create rich chocolate flavor, light texture, and that fresh minty finish. Plus, many have substitutions so you can tweak based on what you have handy or dietary needs.

Flat lay of a small pile of glossy semi-sweet chocolate chips, a few whole coconut sugar crystals loosely scattered, two brown eggs with clean shells, a small white ceramic bowl filled with smooth dark cocoa powder, a small white ceramic bowl containing creamy dairy-free butter, a small white ceramic bowl with coconut oil showing its transparent golden texture, a small white ceramic bowl with fine powdered sugar, a small white ceramic bowl holding almond milk with a slight milky opacity, and a tiny pinch of salt grains arranged neatly, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips: These provide the deep chocolate foundation—choose dairy-free or allergy-friendly to keep it safe.
Coconut oil or avocado oil: I love coconut oil for a subtle sweetness, but avocado oil works great if you want a more neutral flavor.
Coconut sugar: Adds caramel notes and keeps everything naturally sweet without overpowering.
Eggs: Bind everything and help give these brownies that perfect fudgy structure.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate and mint flavors, making them pop just right.
Dark cocoa powder: Using unsweetened, preferably Dutch-processed, intensifies the chocolate depth and richness.
Cornstarch or arrowroot: Helps add structure and moisture without gluten—crucial for that chewy texture.
Salt: Just a pinch balances all the sweetness and sharpens the chocolate notes.
Butter or dairy-free butter: Creates that creamy base for the mint buttercream frosting.
Milk or unsweetened almond milk: Just a splash to loosen up the frosting for easy spreading.
Powdered sugar: For the smoothest, sweetest mint frosting texture.
Mint extract: A little goes a long way to deliver that fresh, cool flavor without overpowering the chocolate.
Green food coloring (optional): Because sometimes, a little color just makes them look extra festive.
Additional chocolate chips and almond milk for ganache topping: Melty chocolate on top amps up the indulgence factor.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Gluten-Free Mint Brownies Recipe is how easy it is to tweak the flavors and textures to your liking. I like to adjust the mint extract amount depending on how strong I want that cool punch—sometimes a lighter hint, sometimes a full mint blast!

Variation: I once swapped out the mint extract for orange extract to make a chocolate-orange brownie version—deliciously different but still fudgy and moist.
Add-Ins: Chopped nuts or peppermint candy bits pressed on top before the ganache sets add great texture and a festive touch.
Frosting Swaps: Sometimes I skip the mint buttercream and just drizzle salted caramel on top for a whole other flavor profile.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Gluten-Free Mint Brownies Recipe

A close-up view of a square chocolate cake on a white marbled surface, being spread with a thick, light green frosting that has a smooth but slightly textured appearance. The cake forms the dark brown base layer, while the green frosting is the top layer, covering the entire surface evenly. A metal spatula held by a woman's hand is smoothing the frosting in a swirling motion on the top right side of the cake. The overall look is fresh and appetizing, with a clear contrast between the dark cake and the pastel green frosting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Oil Together

Start by gently melting your chocolate chips and coconut or avocado oil in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water (double boiler style) or carefully in short bursts in the microwave. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Once smooth, set it aside to cool slightly. This step is key to get that luscious fudgy texture.

Step 2: Whisk in Sugar, Eggs & Vanilla

Next, blend in the coconut sugar while the chocolate mixture is still a bit warm but not hot—this helps dissolve the sugar a bit and creates a glossy batter. Then whisk in eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold In

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly add this dry mix to your wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep those brownies nice and tender.

Step 4: Bake to Fudgy Perfection

Pour batter into a lined or greased baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them—baking times can vary depending on your oven. The edges should look set while the center still looks slightly soft; it will firm up as it cools.

Step 5: Whip Up the Mint Buttercream

While brownies cool, beat softened butter or dairy-free alternative until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then stir in mint extract, a splash of almond milk, and a tiny pinch of salt. If you want, add a drop or two of green food coloring for that classic minty look. The frosting should be smooth and fluffy.

Step 6: Spread Frosting and Add Chocolate Ganache

Once brownies are completely cool, spread the mint buttercream evenly over the top. Then melt the remaining chocolate chips with almond milk to make a silky ganache and drizzle or pour it over the frosted brownies for that extra luscious finish. Let it set before slicing.

Top Tip

Through making this recipe dozens of times, I’ve learned these little tips really make the difference between good and outstanding gluten-free mint brownies.

Chocolate Melting: Melt your chocolate and oil slowly over gentle heat to avoid burning and keep it silky-smooth.
Don’t Overbake: Remove the brownies from the oven as soon as the center is just set but still a little gooey to keep that fudgy texture.
Mint Extract Quantity: Start with less and add more to taste in your frosting to avoid overpowering the chocolate.
Cool Completely: Always let brownies cool fully before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting or sliding off.

How to Serve Gluten-Free Mint Brownies Recipe

Gluten-Free Mint Brownies - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I like to keep it simple with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies on top of the ganache for crunch and a festive pop. Fresh mint leaves or a dusting of cocoa powder also add a classy touch if you’re serving these at a party.

Side Dishes

A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream is my go-to pairing, especially in warmer months. You could also serve these brownies alongside hot mint tea or freshly brewed coffee for a cozy combo.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve tried layering these brownies in a trifle with whipped coconut cream and fresh berries for a special occasion. For holiday gifting, I wrap individual squares in parchment with a ribbon—that always feels extra thoughtful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover brownies covered tightly at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them in an airtight container—just note the buttercream may firm up in the fridge.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these brownies both frosted and unfrosted. Wrap individual pieces well in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They keep beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture.

Reheating

When reheating, especially if frosted, I let the brownies come to room temperature first, then pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive that soft, melty feel. This is hands down my favorite way to enjoy leftover brownies.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make these brownies vegan as well as gluten-free?

You can make this Gluten-Free Mint Brownies Recipe vegan by swapping eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer and using dairy-free butter and chocolate. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious and fudgy.

What if I don't have mint extract on hand?

If you don’t have mint extract, you can substitute with peppermint extract but use less as it’s stronger. Alternatively, adding finely chopped fresh mint leaves into the frosting can give a fresh flavor, though less concentrated.

Is cornstarch necessary, or can I omit it?

Cornstarch or arrowroot helps give the brownies structure and tenderness without gluten. Omitting it might make the brownies denser or crumbly. If you don’t have either, try substituting with an equal amount of gluten-free flour blend.

How do I avoid a gritty texture in the frosting?

To keep the mint buttercream smooth, beat the softened butter well before gradually adding powdered sugar. Make sure to sift your powdered sugar if it’s lumpy. Adding milk a little at a time also helps achieve that silky consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Gluten-Free Mint Brownies Recipe holds a special place in my recipe collection because it’s a dessert that everyone can enjoy without feeling left out. It’s simple, show-stopping, and brings out that classic chocolate-mint nostalgia with a fresh, homemade touch. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes I make again and again—and I hope it becomes a favorite for you too. Give it a go, and you might just surprise yourself with how easy it is to create something so deliciously memorable.